Mark 1:9-13
9 At that time Jesus came from Nazareth in Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan.10 Just as Jesus was coming up out of the water, he saw heaven being torn open and the Spirit descending on him like a dove. 11 And a voice came from heaven: “You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased.”
9 At that time Jesus came from Nazareth in Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan.10 Just as Jesus was coming up out of the water, he saw heaven being torn open and the Spirit descending on him like a dove. 11 And a voice came from heaven: “You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased.”
12 At once the Spirit sent him out into the wilderness, 13 and he was in the wilderness forty days, being tempted by Satan. He was with the wild animals, and angels attended him.
Reflection
Jesus went on pilgrimage to be baptized and spent forty days in the desert praying in silence, being in solitude, meditating on Scripture, and fasting. His spiritual disciplines connected him deeply to his Father, nourishing him and strengthening him. On this wilderness retreat, he solidified his mission for his public ministry and how he would carry out this ministry. He was empowered by the Father and by Scripture to overcome temptation. How do you think God can empower you through prayer and Scripture? How can you make time like Jesus to pray in silence, solitude, and meditating on Scripture?
